The NFC North rivals conclude the 2025 NFL regular season in a Week 18 matchup with contrasting motivations: the Packers, locked into the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs, may rest key players to preserve health for the postseason, while the Vikings aim to finish above .500 and build momentum after a disappointing year marked by injuries and inconsistencies. This border battle at U.S. Bank Stadium could see Minnesota exploit Green Bay’s potential conservative approach, in a series known for intense, competitive games despite the Packers’ historical edge.

Venue Location

U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota. This domed indoor facility, opened in 2016, seats approximately 66,655 fans for NFL games and features a translucent roof and modern amenities, hosting events like Super Bowl LII.

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT / 10:00 a.m. PT).

Broadcast: The game will be broadcast on CBS: Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta, Aditi Kinkhabwala (field reporter)

Local affiliates WFRV in Green Bay and WCCO in Minneapolis.

Streaming options include Paramount+ and NFL+ for eligible viewers.

Injury Report

Both teams are managing significant injuries in the season finale, with the Packers potentially limiting snaps for starters due to playoff implications, while the Vikings deal with key absences that have plagued their campaign.

Green Bay Packers Injuries:

WR Dontayvion Wicks: DNP (concussion).

G Aaron Banks: Limited (illness/ankle).

LB Edgerrin Cooper: Limited (shoulder).

RB Josh Jacobs: Limited (knee/ankle).

QB Jordan Love: Full (left shoulder/concussion).

LB Nick Niemann: Pectoral (designated to return from IR).

Others: QB Malik Willis (new injury), WR Jayden Reed (illness), EDGE Lukas Van Ness (illness); 12 players total listed.

Minnesota Vikings Injuries:

TE T.J. Hockenson: DNP (shoulder).

RB Aaron Jones: DNP (hip).

WR Myles Price: DNP (ankle).

LB Blake Cashman: Limited (elbow).

RB Jordan Mason: Limited (ankle).

QB J.J. McCarthy: Limited (right hand).

Others: 10 players listed, including several DNPs and limited participants.

Player Matchups

Injuries and potential rest for Packers starters add layers to these battles, with Minnesota’s offense potentially gaining edges against a conservative Green Bay defense.

Packers QB Jordan Love vs. Vikings Secondary: Love, cleared for full practice, faces a Vikings pass defense ranked mid-tier but vulnerable to big plays; Minnesota’s Byron Murphy and safeties could test him if Green Bay airs it out.

Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy vs. Packers Pass Rush: McCarthy, limited with a hand injury, tests Green Bay’s front; if rested, edges like Lukas Van Ness (ill) may see reduced snaps, opening opportunities.

Packers RB Josh Jacobs vs. Vikings Run Defense: Jacobs (limited) could exploit Minnesota’s 20th-ranked run D if active, but rest risks shift focus to backups.

Vikings RB Aaron Jones/Jordan Mason vs. Packers Front: Jones (DNP) and Mason (limited) face Green Bay’s solid run stoppers; injuries could force a pass-heavy approach.

Recent Team Forms

The Packers have gone 3-2 in their last 5 games, averaging 24.3 PPG (13th in NFL) but allowing 21.5 PPG, securing a playoff spot despite a tie and injuries; they’re 1-8 ATS against sub-.500 teams since 2025.

Expect rest for starters like Love and Jacobs.

The Vikings are 3-2 in their last 5, averaging 20.5 PPG (26th) while allowing similar points; they’ve battled injuries but can end above .500 with a win.

Series History

The Packers lead the all-time series 67-60-3, including a 2-0 edge in playoffs (one win each).

Over the last 10 years, Minnesota holds an 11-8-1 edge.

Green Bay won the 2025 Week 4 matchup 23-6 at Lambeau Field.

The rivalry dates to 1961, with memorable moments like Brett Favre’s tenure in Minnesota adding

Betting Trends

Vikings: 8-8 ATS overall; 3-2 SU and ATS in last 5; strong at home (5-3 ATS).

Packers: 6-10 ATS; 1-8 ATS vs. .500 or worse teams since 2025; 3-2 in last 5 but may rest players.

Head-to-Head: Vikings 3-2 SU in last 5 meetings; unders in 3 of last 5 rivalry games; Green Bay 1-4 ATS lately vs. Minnesota.

PACKERS NOTES:

• PACKERS clinched a playoff berth for the 3rd straight season. • QB JORDAN LOVE has TD pass in 3 of his past 4 games. Ranks 7th with 101.2 rating in 2025. • QB MALIK WILLIS passed for 288 yards & TD for 134.6 rating & had 60 rush yards & 2 rush TDs in Week 17. Has passed for 1,322 yards & 6 TDs & has 4 rush TDs in his career. • RB JOSH JACOBS has 90+ scrimmage yards in 2 of his past 3 on road. Has 1,211 scrimmage yards in 2025, his 7th consecutive season with 1,000+ scrimmage yards, tied-most since 2019 (Derrick Henry). Ranks tied-4th with 13 rush TDs this season. Had 69 scrimmage yards & TD in last game vs. Min. (12/29/24). • RB EMANUEL WILSON had 107 rush yards & 2 TDs in Week 12 meeting. • WR CHRISTIAN WATSON led team with 113 rec. yards & TD in Week 17. • WR ROMEO DOUBS had 62 rec. yards in Week 17 & aims for 3rd in row with 60+ rec. yards. Had TD catch in 2 of his past 3 on road. • LB QUAY WALKER had 12 tackles & sack in Week 17. Aims for 5th in row with 9+ tackles. Has TFL in 2 of his past 3. Aims for 3rd in row vs. Min. with sack. Has 8+ tackles in 4 of his past 5 vs. Min. • LB EDGERRIN COOPER had 10 tackles in Week 17. Has 8+ tackles in 2 of his past 3 on road. • LB ISAIAH MCDUFFIE had 6 tackles in Week 17. Had 8 tackles & INT in Week 12 meeting. • CB KEISEAN NIXON had 7 tackles & PD in Week 17. Ranked tied-4th with 17 PD this season. Has 7+ tackles in 3 of his past 4 vs. Min. • S XAVIER MCKINNEY led team with season-high 13 tackles in Week 17. Has PD in 2 of his past 3. • S EVAN WILLIAMS has 8+ tackles in 2 of his past 3 on road. Had INT in Week 12 meeting.

VIKINGS NOTES:

• QB J.J. McCARTHY has TD pass in 2 of his past 3 games & aims for 4th in row at home TD pass. • QB MAX BROSMER has 271 pass yards this season in 2 career starts. • RB AARON JONES had 53 rush yards & rush TD in Week 17. Has 50+ scrimmage yards in 8 of his past 9. Ranks 4th with 7,626 rush yards since 2017. Has 75+ scrimmage yards in 2 of his past 3 vs. GB. • WR JUSTIN JEFFERSON ranks 1st with 8,379 rec. yards & 3rd with 571 receptions since 2020, most rec. yards in 1st 6 career seasons all-time. Aims for 6th consecutive 1,000+ yard season (947). Has 85+ rec. yards in 2 of his past 3 vs. GB. • TE T.J. HOCKENSON ranks 4th among TEs with 4,440 rec. yards & 5th with 433 receptions. Has 65+ rec. yards in 2 of his past 3 vs. GB. • LB BLAKE CASHMAN led team with 17 tackles & had sack in Week 17, tied6th most tackles in a single game this season. Aims for 5th in row with 10+ tackles. Has 10+ tackles in 9 games this season, tied for most in the NFL. Had 16 tackles in Week 12 meeting & aims for 4th in row vs. GB with 10+ tackles. Has TFL in 2 of his past 3 vs. GB. • LB ERIC WILSON had 3rd FF this season in Week 17. Has TFL in 4 of his past 5 at home. • LB ANDREW VAN GINKEL had 5 tackles, 1.5 sacks & 2 FR in Week 17. Aims for 4th in row with 0.5+ sack. • LB DALLAS TURNER had half sack & FF in Week 17. Had sack in Week 12 meeting. • DL JALEN REDMOND had TFL, PD & 1st FR this season in Week 17. Has TFL in 3 of his past 4. Has 6 tackles & TFL in Week 12 meeting. • CB BYRON MURPHY had INT & FR in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row with INT & 4th in row with PD. Had PD in Week 12 meeting. • S HARRISON SMITH had sack, 2 TFL, INT & 3 PD in Week 17, the only player in the NFL to do such in a single game this season. Has 2+ PD in 2 of his past 3.

Game Odds

Green Bay Packers          35.5

Minnesota Vikings          – 7.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Saturday, January 3, 2026

The AFC South concludes the 2025 NFL regular season with a Week 18 divisional matchup where the Jaguars aim to clinch the division title and potentially improve their playoff seeding with a win, while the Titans, mired in a dismal year, look to play spoiler in this longstanding rivalry. Jacksonville has surged late, riding a potent offense and defense, against a Tennessee squad hampered by injuries and offensive struggles. Expect the Jaguars’ home crowd to fuel a high-stakes atmosphere in what could be a lopsided affair.

Venue Location

EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida. This outdoor venue, formerly TIAA Bank Field, opened in 1995 and holds approximately 67,814 fans for NFL games, featuring modern upgrades like enhanced video boards and fan zones.

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT / 10:00 a.m. PT).

Broadcast: The game will be broadcast on FOX: Adam Amin, Drew Brees, Kristina Pink (field reporter)

Local affiliates like WZTV in Nashville and WOFL in Orlando/Jacksonville areas.

Streaming available via FOX Sports app, Fubo, or NFL+.

Weather Updates

As an outdoor stadium, weather could influence play, particularly passing and kicking. Forecasts for Jacksonville on January 4 indicate daytime highs around 64°F with lows near 48°F, a 10-20% chance of precipitation, partly cloudy skies, and winds around 7-9 mph from the southeast.

Mild conditions overall, but any rain could favor ground games; monitor for updates as winds may affect deep passes.

Injury Report

Both teams enter the finale with notable ailments, but the Titans are more depleted, potentially resting players in a meaningless game, while the Jaguars manage injuries amid playoff implications.

Tennessee Titans Injuries:

TE Gunnar Helm: DNP (undisclosed).

G Kevin Zeitler: DNP (undisclosed).

CB Jalyn Armour-Davis: Limited (Achilles).

S Amani Hooker: Status TBD.

LB Arden Key: Status TBD.

LB Jihad Ward: Limited (ankle).

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WR Van Jefferson: Status TBD (forearm).

Others: LB Cody Barton (undisclosed), RB Julius Chestnut (full).

Titans list 10+ players, impacting lines and secondary.

Jacksonville Jaguars Injuries:

OL Ezra Cleveland: DNP/Limited (shoulder).

OL Robert Hainsey: DNP/Limited (groin).

CB Greg Newsome II: DNP/Limited (shoulder).

EDGE Jalen McLeod: DNP/Limited (ankle).

CB Montaric Brown: DNP/Limited (neck).

EDGE Danny Striggow: DNP/Limited (undisclosed).

OT Anton Harrison: DNP (undisclosed).

RB Bhayshul Tuten: Full (recently missed games but practicing).

Others: RG Patrick Mekari (missed practice), 11 total listed.

Jaguars’ O-line and secondary thinned but depth available.

Player Matchups

Injuries heighten these battles, with Jacksonville’s offense poised to exploit Tennessee’s weaknesses.

Jaguars OL Jonah Monheim vs. Titans DT Jeffery Simmons: Monheim protects against Simmons’ interior pressure in a key trench matchup.

Titans RB Tony Pollard vs. Jaguars Front Seven: Pollard (1,079 yards) tests Jacksonville’s run defense, but injuries could limit output.

Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence vs. Titans Secondary: Lawrence (low INTs) exploits injury-hit DBs like Armour-Davis.

Titans QB Cam Ward vs. Jaguars Defense: Rookie Ward faces a surging unit; turnovers could decide.

Jaguars RB Bhayshul Tuten/Travis Etienne Jr. vs. Titans Run D: Ground attack could dominate if Tuten plays fully.

Recent Team Forms

The Jaguars have won 7 of their last 8, including a 23-17 road victory over the Colts in Week 17, boasting strong offense (27.1 PPG) and defense en route to a division lead.

They’re 4-1 in last 5, trending 7-3 ATS lately.

The Titans have lost 10 of their last 11, falling 26-34 to the Saints in Week 17, with offensive woes (19.4 PPG in last 5) and a 1-4 record in recent games.

Series History

The Titans lead the all-time series 35-27 (including 1 playoff game), dating back to 1995 as the Oilers/Jaguars rivalry.

Tennessee has won 5 straight streaks historically, but Jacksonville took the 2025 Week 12 meeting 25-3. Largest wins: Jaguars 40-13 (2005), Titans 42-20 (2015/2019).

Betting Trends

Jaguars: 10-6 ATS overall; 7-3 ATS lately; 6-2 ATS at home; strong vs. AFC South.

Titans: 5-11 ATS; 1-4 ATS last 5 vs. Jaguars; 1-6 SU last 7 vs. Jaguars; overs in 7 of 11 games.

Head-to-Head: Jaguars 4-1 ATS last 5; unders in 3 of last 5 rivalry games.

TITANS NOTES:

• QB CAM WARD passed for 251 yards & 2 TDs in Week 17. Aims for his 5th in row with 2+ TD passes. Completed 24 of 38 atts. (63.2 pct.) for 141 yards in Week 13 meeting. • RB TONY POLLARD led team with 95 scrimmage yards (85 rush, 10 rec.) last week. Aims for his 5th in row overall with 95+ scrimmage yards & aims for his 3rd in row on road with 110+ scrimmage yards & rush TD. Rushed for 60 yards in Week 13 meeting. • WR CHIMERE DIKE (rookie) had 62 scrimmage yards (55 rec., 7 rush) in Week 17. Has 5+ catches in 2 of his past 3 on road. • WR ELIC AYOMANOR (rookie) had TD catch last week. • TE CHIG OKONKWO had 55 rec. yards & rec. TD in Week 17. Aims for his 3rd in row with TD catch. • LB CEDRIC GRAY led team with 12 tackles & had TFL last week. Aims for his 4th in row with 10+ tackles. Had 9 tackles in Week 13 meeting. • LB CODY BARTON had 3 tackles in Week 17. Has PD in 3 of his past 4 on road. Aims for his 4th in row vs. division with TFL. Had TFL in Week 13 meeting. • LB ARDEN KEY had TFL last week. Spent 2022 season with Jax. • LB JAYLEN HARRELL had 4 tackles, TFL & half sack in Week 17. Aims for his 5th in row with half sack. • DT JEFFERY SIMMONS had 7 tackles, sack & FF last week. Has FF in 2 of his past 3. Aims for his 7th in row on road with sack. Had 6 tackles & sack in Week 13 meeting. • DT JAMES LYNCH had half sack in Week 17. • DB KEMON HALL had 4 tackles & 1st-career FF last week. • CB KAIIR ELAM had TFL, FR & PD in Week 17. Has FR in 2 of his past 3. • CB DARRELL BAKER had 5 tackles last week. Had 3 tackles & PD in Week 13 meeting. • S KENDELL BROOKS had 5 tackles in Week 17

JAGUARS NOTES:

• JAGUARS clinched 1st playoff berth since 2022 & with a win in Week 18, can secure 5th division title in franchise history & 13 wins in a season for 2nd time ever (14 wins in 1999). • QB TREVOR LAWRENCE completed 23 of 37 atts. (62.2 pct.) for 263 yards & had 2 rush TDs in Week 17. Became 4th QB since 2000 with 3+ games (3) with 2+ rush TDs in single season. Aims for his 4th in row with rush TD. Passed for 229 yards & 2 TDs with 111.5 rating in Week 13 meeting. • RB TRAVIS ETIENNE had 92 scrimmage yards (76 rush, 16 rec.) last week. Has TD in 3 of his past 4. Aims for his 5th in row with 65+ scrimmage yards. • WR PARKER WASHINGTON had 8 receptions for 115 yards in Week 17. Aims for his 3rd in row with 6+ catches & 115 rec. yards. • WR JAKOBI MEYERS had 6 catches for 90 yards & TD in Week 13 meeting. • WR BRIAN THOMAS had 39 rec. yards in Week 17. Has 7+ catches & 85+ rec. yards in 2 of his 3 career games vs. Ten. • TE BRENTON STRANGE had 54 rec. yards last week. Had 45 rec. yards & TD catch in Week 13 meeting. • LB FOYESADE OLUOKUN led team with 12 tackles in Week 17. Aims for his 3rd in row with 10+ tackles. Had 6 tackles in Week 13 meeting. • LB DEVIN LLOYD had 5 tackles & PD last week. Has PD in 3 of his past 4. Aims for his 7th in row with 5+ tackles. Had 8 tackles in Week 13 meeting. • DE JOSH HINES-ALLEN had 6 tackles, sack & PD in Week 17. Aims for his 8th in row vs. Ten. with half sack. Had 3 TFL & 2 sacks in Week 13 meeting. • DE TRAVON WALKER had 4 tackles, 2 TFL & sack last week. Aims for his 5th in row with TFL. Had sack & FF in his last game vs. Ten. (12/29/24). • CB JARRIAN JONES had INT in Week 17. Aims for his 3rd in row with INT. • S ANDREW WINGARD had 5 tackles & TFL last week. • S ANTONIO JOHNSON had INT in Week 17. Has INT in 2 of his past 3.

Game Odds

Tennessee Titans             47.5

Jacksonville Jaguars        – 13.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Saturday, January 3, 2026

The AFC South wraps up the 2025 NFL regular season with a Week 18 matchup that could influence seeding for the Texans, who are locked into the playoffs but aiming for a better position, while the Colts look to end a middling year on a positive note. Houston rides a strong late-season surge, bolstered by their defense, against an Indianapolis squad hampered by injuries and inconsistencies. This divisional rivalry often delivers close contests, but the Texans enter as heavy favorites at home.

Venue Location

NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas. This retractable-roof dome, opened in 2002, seats about 72,220 for NFL games and features modern amenities like a massive video board. The roof is expected to be closed for this January matchup.

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT / 10:00 a.m. PT).

Broadcast on CBS: Ian Eagle, JJ Watt, Evan Washburn (field reporter)

Local affiliates like WTTV in Indianapolis and KHOU in Houston.

Streaming via Paramount+ or NFL+.

Injury Report

Both teams are nursing ailments in the finale, with the Colts particularly hit hard at key positions, potentially forcing backups into larger roles. The Texans, while listing more players, have several trending positively.

Indianapolis Colts Injuries:

QB Anthony Richardson: Out (eye/vision impairment; will not be activated from IR).

CB Jaylon Jones: DNP (illness).

TE Will Mallory: DNP (lung).

G Dalton Tucker: DNP (shoulder).

EDGE JT Tuimoloau: Limited (oblique).

T Bernhard Raimann: Full (elbow).

S Daniel Scott: Full (knee).

Others: 11 total listed on first report; RB Tyler Goodson cleared (no designation).

coltswire.usatoday.com +1

Richardson’s absence means Riley Leonard or another backup likely starts.

Houston Texans Injuries:

G Ed Ingram: Limited (ankle).

K Ka’imi Fairbairn: Limited (illness).

T Austin Brinkman: Full (knee).

CB Ajani Carter: Full (hamstring).

T Aireontae Ersery: Trending positive (injury update post-Week 17).

WR Nico Collins: Listed among 15 players; status TBD but practiced.

Others: Seven starters missed practice early in week, but many (e.g., CB Azeez Al-Shaair) limited or full.

Houston’s depth could mitigate issues.

Player Matchups

Injuries add intrigue to these battles, with Houston’s top-ranked defense poised to exploit Indianapolis’ vulnerabilities.

Texans QB C.J. Stroud vs. Colts Secondary: Stroud (projected 227 passing yards) faces a Colts pass D allowing 225+ YPG. With Richardson out, Houston’s offense could control tempo against a thinned secondary.

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor vs. Texans Run Defense: Taylor seeks to exploit Houston’s No. 1 defense, but injuries to the O-line (e.g., Raimann full but monitored) may limit lanes.

Texans WR Nico Collins vs. Colts CBs: Collins, if active, tests Indianapolis’ perimeter, especially with Jones ill. A mismatch favoring Houston’s passing attack.

Colts Pass Rush vs. Texans O-Line: With Tuimoloau limited, Indianapolis’ edges face a Houston front protecting Stroud; Brinkman and Ingram’s statuses key.

Records entering Week 18; Texans clinched playoffs, Colts eliminated.

Recent Team Forms

The Texans have won 5 straight, including victories over the Chiefs, Bills, Colts, and 49ers, boasting the NFL’s best defense and averaging 24+ PPG lately.

They’re 2-3 SU in last 5 but 4-4 ATS on the road, trending up at home.

The Colts dropped 5 of their last 7 after an 8-2 start, plagued by injuries (e.g., QB, O-line). They average 21 PPG but struggle defensively, going 2-3 ATS in recent games.

Series History

The Texans lead the all-time series 35-11-1 since 2002, including a 4-1 edge in the last 5 meetings over 3 seasons.

Houston swept Indianapolis in 2025, with tight games highlighting the rivalry. Largest Texans win: 45-3 (2011); Colts’ notable: 27-20 OT (2023).

Betting Trends

Texans: 9-7 ATS overall; 1-4 ATS in last 5; strong at home (5-3 ATS); 4-4 ATS on road but 2-3 SU lately.

Colts: 8-7-1 ATS; OVER 8-8; eliminated from playoffs after 5-game skid.

Head-to-Head: Houston 4-1 SU last 5; unders hit in 3 of last 5 rivalry games. Public lean: 70%+ on Texans spread/ML.

COLTS NOTES:

• QB PHILIP RIVERS passed for 147 yards & TD in Week 17. Aims for his 5th in row vs. Hou. with 65+ comp. pct., 225+ pass yards, 2+ TD passes & 100+ rating. Completed 22 of 28 atts. (78.6 pct.) for 228 yards & 2 TD passes with 124.4 rating in his last game vs. Hou. (12/20/20). • RB JONATHAN TAYLOR led team with 84 scrimmage yards (70 rush, 14 rec.) & had rush TD last week. Leads NFL in scrimmage TDs (20) & rush TDs (18), ranks 2nd in rush yards (1,559) & ranks 3rd in scrimmage yards (1,924) this season. Became 4th player ever with 18+ rush TDs in 2+ career seasons (2). Became 6th player all-time with 9,000+ scrimmage yards (9,028) & 75+ scrimmage TDs (76) in 1st 6 seasons. Has rush TD in 3 of his past 4. Had 121 scrimmage yards (85 rush, 36 rec.) in Week 13 meeting. • WR JOSH DOWNS had 34 rec. yards in Week 17. Had 4 catches for 109 yards & TD in last meeting at Hou. • WR MICHAEL PITTMAN has 5+ receptions in 10 of his past 11 on road. • TE TYLER WARREN had 5 catches for 43 yards last week. Ranks 2nd among rookies in receptions (71) & ranks 3rd in rec. yards (791). • TE MO ALIE-COX had 1st TD catch of season in Week 17. • LB ZAIRE FRANKLIN had 5 tackles last week. Has 5+ tackles in each of his 7 games on road this season. Had 13 tackles in Week 13 meeting. • LB GERMAINE PRATT had 7 tackles, 2 PD & INT in Week 17. Has PD in 7 of his past 8. Had 9 tackles, FF & PD in Week 13 meeting. • DE LAIATU LATU had sack & PD last week. Aims for his 4th in row with sack. • CB SAUCE GARDNER had 3 tackles & PD in Week 17. Has PD in 6 of his past 7 games. • CB KENNY MOORE had 10 tackles & 2 TFL last week. Aims for his 4th in row vs. Hou. with 5+ tackles. • S CAM BYNUM had 4 tackles in Week 17. Had 6 tackles, TFL & INT in Week 13 meeting. • S NICK CROSS led team with 12 tackles & had TFL last week.

TEXANS NOTES:

• TEXANS became 5th team since 1990 to begin 0-3 & qualify for playoffs. Need win & Jaguars loss to secure 3rd consecutive division title. Lead NFL in total defense (272.4 yards allowed per game) & scoring defense (16.6 points allowed per game) in 2025. • QB C.J. STROUD passed for 244 yards & 2 TDs in Week 17. Has 240+ pass yards & 2+ TD passes in 2 of his past 3. Is 4-1 in 5 career starts vs. Ind. with 1,443 pass yards (288.6 per game) & 7 TDs vs. INT with 103.8 rating. • RB WOODY MARKS (rookie) rushed for 71 yards last week. Has 65+ scrimmage yards in 4 of his past 5. Rushed for 64 yards in Week 13 meeting. • WR NICO COLLINS had 57 rec. yards in Week 17. Aims for his 10th in row with 55+ rec. yards. Has 5+ catches & 90+ rec. yards in 4 of his 5 games vs. division this season. Had 5 receptions, 105 scrimmage yards (98 rec., 7 rush) & rush TD in Week 13 meeting. • WR JAYDEN HIGGINS (rookie) had 88 rec. yards & 5th TD catch of season last week. Had 5 catches for 65 yards in Week 13 meeting. • WR JAYLIN NOEL (rookie) had 54 rec. yards & TD catch in Week 17. • DE DANIELLE HUNTER had 4 tackles & sack last week. Aims for his 5th in row at home with sack. Had PD in Week 13 meeting. • DE WILL ANDERSON had 3 tackles, 2 TFL & half sack in Week 17. Ranks 5th in NFL with 19 TFL this season. Had 4 tackles & TFL in Week 13 meeting. • DE DEREK BARNETT had 2 sacks last week. Aims for his 3rd in row with sack. • DT DENICO AUTRY had sack & FF in Week 17. • LB AZEEZ AL-SHAAIR had 6 tackles & INT last week. Has 6+ tackles in 4 of his past 5. Had 8 tackles in Week 13 meeting. • LB HENRY TO’OTO’O led team with 12 tackles & had TFL in Week 17. • CB KAMARI LASSITER had 6 tackles & PD last week. Aims for his 5th in row with PD. • CB DEREK STINGLEY had 3 tackles & PD in Week 17. Has PD in 3 of his past 4.

Game Odds

Indianapolis Colts            38.5

Houston Texans                – 10.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Saturday, January 3, 2026

The AFC North concludes the 2025 NFL regular season with a Week 18 clash between two teams out of playoff contention, but not lacking in rivalry intensity. The Browns, plagued by injuries and inconsistencies, aim to end a dismal year on a high note, while the Bengals seek to build momentum for the offseason with a win at home. This matchup highlights defensive stars like Myles Garrett chasing history against Joe Burrow’s offense, in a series known for close, hard-fought battles.

Venue Location

Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio. This outdoor venue, formerly Paul Brown Stadium, opened in 2000 and holds about 65,515 fans. It’s situated along the Ohio River and features modern amenities, including a Bengals-themed Hall of Fame.

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT / 10:00 a.m. PT).

Broadcast: CBS: Tom McCarthy, Logan Ryan, Amanda Balionis (field reporter)

Local broadcasts on WKYC in Cleveland and WKRC in Cincinnati.

Streaming options include Paramount+ and NFL+ for subscribers.

Weather Updates

As an outdoor stadium, weather could play a factor. Forecasts for Cincinnati on January 4 predict daytime highs around 50°F with nighttime lows near 36°F, a 25% chance of precipitation, and winds up to 13 mph from the west. Conditions are expected to be partly cloudy, potentially impacting passing games if winds gust higher.

No major storms are anticipated, but monitor for updates closer to kickoff.

Injury Report

Both squads are dealing with significant ailments heading into the finale, which could lead to rested starters or elevated backups in a meaningless game for standings.

Cleveland Browns Injuries:

G Wyatt Teller: Out (calf; placed on IR, ending his season).

S Grant Delpit: Questionable (Achilles).

DT Mason Graham: Questionable (ribs).

TE Harold Fannin Jr.: Questionable (groin; not ruled out).

LB Carson Schwesigner: DNP (quad/ankle).

G Teven Jenkins: DNP (undisclosed).

Others: QB Deshaun Watson remains out (Achilles), with Shedeur Sanders starting.

The Browns have 10+ players on the report, thinning their lines.

Cincinnati Bengals Injuries:

RB Chase Brown: DNP (ankle; status uncertain for finale).

DE Joseph Ossai: DNP (ankle).

WR Charlie Jones: Questionable (ankle).

DT B.J. Hill: DNP (ankle).

CB Josh Newton: Questionable (hamstring).

C Matt Lee: Out (knee).

DE Shemar Stewart: Status TBD (undisclosed).

Seven players are monitored, with ankle issues prominent.

Player Matchups

Key battles could decide this game’s tempo, especially with injuries forcing adjustments.

Browns DE Myles Garrett vs. Bengals O-Line: Garrett, one sack shy of the single-season record, faces a Bengals front missing potential starters. Cincinnati ranks 25th in sacks allowed (48), giving Garrett a shot at history.

Bengals QB Joe Burrow vs. Browns Secondary: Burrow (3,800+ yards) tests a Cleveland pass D ranked 22nd (225.6 YPG allowed). With Delpit questionable, expect targets to Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.

Browns RB Raheim Sanders vs. Bengals Run Defense: Sanders steps up if backups are needed, against a Cincinnati unit allowing 128.4 rushing YPG (26th). Hill’s absence could open lanes.

Bengals WRs vs. Browns CBs: Chase and Higgins could exploit Cleveland’s injury-hit secondary, but wind might favor underneath routes.

Both sit at the bottom of the AFC North, with Cincinnati one game ahead.

Recent Team Forms

The Browns have limped to the finish, going 1-4 in their last 5, with their lone win a 13-6 defensive struggle over the Steelers in Week 17. Offense averages just 16.2 PPG (31st), hampered by QB instability and injuries.

The Bengals are 3-2 in their last 5, showing late-season fight with wins over divisional foes. They average 24.8 PPG (12th), led by Burrow, but defense has allowed 26+ points in losses.

Series History

The “Battle of Ohio” dates to 1970, with the Bengals leading 56-48 all-time. Cincinnati has won 7 straight from 2014-2017, while Cleveland took 7 in a row from 1992-1995. Largest margins: Bengals 37-3 (2015), Browns 34-0 (1987). In the last 10 meetings, it’s split 5-5, with Bengals winning the 2025 Week 1 matchup 17-16.

Betting Trends

Bengals: 3-2 SU and 2-3 ATS in last 5; 4-4 ATS at home; strong vs. AFC North (4-2 ATS).

Browns: 1-4 SU last 5; 5-11 ATS overall; unders in 10 of 16 games.

Head-to-Head: Bengals cover in 6 of last 10; totals under in 7 of last 10 rivalry games.

BROWNS NOTES:

• QB SHEDEUR SANDERS (rookie) completed 17 of 23 atts. (73.9 pct.) for 186 yards & TD in Week 17. Aims for his 3rd in row with 65+ comp. pct. & TD pass. • RB RAHEIM SANDERS (rookie) had 31 scrimmage yards (21 rush, 10 rec.) last week. Aims for his 3rd in row with 30+ scrimmage yards. • RB DYLAN SAMPSON (rookie) rushed for 27 yards in Week 17. Had 93 scrimmage yards (64 rec., 29 rush) in Week 1 meeting. • WR JERRY JEUDY had 5 catches for 54 yards last week. Had 5 catches for 66 yards in Week 1 meeting. • WR CEDRIC TILLMAN had 42 rec. yards in Week 17. Has 40+ rec. yards in 3 of his past 4 vs. division. Had 5 catches for 52 yards & TD in Week 1 meeting. • TE HAROLD FANNIN had TD catch last week. Leads rookies in receptions (72) & ranks 4th in rec. yards (731) in 2025. Has TD catch in 4 of his past 5. Had 7 catches for 63 yards in Week 1 meeting. • LB CARSON SCHWESINGER had 9 tackles in Week 17. Leads rookies in tackles (146) & TFL (11) in 2025. Has 10+ tackles in 6 of his past 7. Had 8 tackles & TFL in Week 1 meeting. • LB DEVIN BUSH had 9 tackles, TFL & FF last week. Has 9+ tackles in 3 of his past 4. Had 7 tackles, TFL & PD in Week 1 meeting. • LB JEROME BAKER had 5 tackles & TFL in Week 17. • DT MASON GRAHAM (rookie) had 6 tackles & TFL last week. Has TFL & PD in 2 of his past 3 on road. • DE ALEX WRIGHT had 3 tackles, 2 TFL & sack in Week 17. Aims for his 4th in row with half sack. • CB DENZEL WARD had PD last week. Has PD in 4 of his 5 games vs. division this season, incl. in Week 1 meeting. • CB TYSON CAMPBELL had 4 tackles, 2 PD & TFL in Week 17. • S GRANT DELPIT had 8 tackles, sack & FF last week.

BENGALS NOTES:

• QB JOE BURROW completed 24 of 31 atts. (77.4 pct.) for 305 yards & 2 TDs with 129.1 rating in Week 17. Became 3rd player ever with 300+ pass yards in 25+ games (25) in 1st 6 seasons. Aims for his 3rd in row with 75+ comp. pct., 305+ pass yards, 2+ TD passes & 125+ rating. Completed 14 of 23 atts. (60.9 pct.) for 113 yards & TD in Week 1 meeting. • RB CHASE BROWN led team with 141 scrimmage yards (101 rush, 40 rec.) & had 2 rush TDs last week. Has 2+ scrimmage TDs in 3 of his past 4. Aims for his 7th in row at home with 90+ scrimmage yards. Had 51 scrimmage yards (43 rush, 8 rec.) & rush TD in Week 1 meeting. • RB SAMAJE PERINE had rush TD in Week 17. Aims for his 3rd in row with rush TD. • WR JA’MARR CHASE had 7 catches for 60 yards & 2 TDs last week. Is 1 of 2 (HOFer Randy Moss) all-time with 7+ rec. TDs in each of 1st 5 seasons. Is 1 of 6 all-time with 13+ games (13) with 2+ rec. TDs in 1st 5 seasons. Surpassed Andre Rison (52) for 5th-most rec. TDs by WR in 1st 5 seasons. Ranks 3rd in NFL in receptions (117) & 4th in rec. yards (1,316) in 2025. Aims for his 6th in row with 5+ catches. • WR TEE HIGGINS had 59 rec. yards in Week 17. Ranks tied-5th in NFL in rec. TDs (10) this season. Aims for his 4th in row with 50+ rec. yards. • LB DEMETRIUS KNIGHT had 5 tackles last week. Ranks 2nd among rookies in tackles (103) in 2025. Has 5+ tackles in 5 of his past 6. Had 10 tackles & PD in Week 1 meeting. • DE SHEMAR STEWART (rookie) had 1st-career sack in Week 17. Aims for his 3rd in row with TFL. • DE MYLES MURPHY had 6 tackles & sack last week. Aims for his 4th in row with TFL. • CB DAX HILL had 3 PD in Week 17. Has PD in 6 of his past 7. Had 9 tackles in Week 1 meeting.

Game Odds

Cleveland Browns            44.5

Cincinnati Bengals           – 7.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Saturday, January 3, 2026

The NFC South rivals close out their 2025 NFL regular season with a Week 18 matchup that carries divisional pride but no playoff implications, as both teams have been eliminated from postseason contention. The Saints, mired in a disappointing campaign, look to play spoiler against a Falcons squad that’s shown flashes of improvement late in the year. This game pits two rebuilding franchises against each other in a historic rivalry, with Atlanta holding a slight edge in recent form and home-field advantage.

Venue Location

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia. This state-of-the-art domed facility, which opened in 2017, features a retractable roof and seats approximately 71,000 fans for NFL games. It’s known for its fan-friendly amenities and has hosted major events like Super Bowl LIII.

Kickoff is set for 10:00 a.m. PT).

The game will be broadcast on FOX: Chris Myers, Mark Schlereth, Jen Hale (field reporter)

with local affiliates WVUE-FOX 8 in New Orleans.

Live streaming is available via Fubo or NFL+ for eligible viewers.

Injury Report

Both teams enter the finale with key players sidelined or limited, potentially affecting offensive firepower and defensive schemes.

New Orleans Saints Injuries:

WR Chris Olave: Out (blood clot in lung; detected early, expected full recovery in a month but ruled out for finale).

G Dillon Radunz: Questionable (knee).

QB Spencer Rattler: Questionable (right finger).

DT Nathan Shepherd: Questionable (ankle/knee).

Others on IR or inactive: DT Vernon Broughton (hip), CB Michael Davis (shoulder).

The Saints list 13 players total on their report, with Olave’s absence a major blow to the passing game.

Atlanta Falcons Injuries:

DL Brandon Dorlus: Out (injury scare from previous game; avoided major damage but misses finale).

WR Drake London: Questionable (knee).

TE Kyle Pitts Sr.: Questionable (knee).

S DeMarcco Hellams: Questionable (hamstring).

DL Sam Roberts: Questionable (knee/ankle).

CB Clark Phillips III: DNP in practice (triceps/illness).

The Falcons’ secondary and line could be thinned, but their running game remains intact.

Player Matchups

This game features several intriguing battles, particularly in the trenches and on the perimeter, where injuries could tilt advantages.

Falcons RB Bijan Robinson vs. Saints Run Defense: Robinson, fourth in the NFL with 1,445 rushing yards, faces a Saints unit ranked 30th in rushing yards allowed (93.4 per game).  

Atlanta’s ground attack could exploit New Orleans’ vulnerabilities, especially if Shepherd is limited.

Saints QB Tyler Shough vs. Falcons Secondary: Shough, a late-season standout for the Saints, will test Atlanta’s pass defense (ranked 17th, allowing 218.5 yards per game).

With Olave out, expect targets to WRs like Marquez Valdes-Scantling, but Hellams and Phillips’ statuses could open lanes.

Falcons O-Line vs. Saints Pass Rush: Atlanta’s protection unit has struggled, allowing pressure that could be capitalized on by New Orleans’ edge rushers. This matchup is key for Falcons QB Kirk Cousins to operate cleanly.

Saints WR Group vs. Falcons CBs: Without Olave, the burden falls on backups to exploit any weaknesses in Atlanta’s coverage, especially if London is hobbled on the other side.

Both teams sit at the bottom of the NFC South, with Atlanta edging New Orleans by one win.

Recent Team Forms

The Falcons have surged late, winning 3 of their last 5 games, including a victory over the Rams in Week 17, riding strong play from Robinson and Cousins.

They’ve shown resilience at home, going 5-3 ATS in road games but trending positively overall.

The Saints have struggled, dropping 4 of their last 5, with offensive inconsistencies exacerbated by injuries. Their lone bright spot has been Shough’s emergence, but the team averages just 18.1 points per game (29th in NFL).

Series History

The Falcons-Saints rivalry is one of the NFL’s fiercest, dating back to 1967 when New Orleans won the inaugural matchup 27-24.

Atlanta leads the all-time series 57-56 (including one postseason game), with the regular-season tally tied at 56-56 in some records.

Over the last 10 years, New Orleans holds a 12-8 edge.

The teams split their 2025 meetings, with Atlanta winning in New Orleans in Week 12.

Legendary QBs like Drew Brees and Matt Ryan have defined the series, facing off 23 times.

Betting Trends

Falcons: 3-2 straight up and ATS in last 5 games; 5-3 ATS at home; strong against NFC South foes lately.

Saints: 8-8 ATS overall; 48.4% implied win chance here; unders have hit in 10 of 15 games (5-10-1 O/U).

Head-to-Head: Atlanta’s offense (210.25 passing yards/game) edges New Orleans’ defense; totals trend under in rivalry games.

SAINTS NOTES:

• QB TYLER SHOUGH completed 22 of 27 passes (81.5%) for 333 yards & 2 TDs for a 142.7 rating & is 2nd rookie ever with a comp. percentage of 80+, 300+ pass yards & 145+ rating in a single game (Bo Nix). Aims for 4th in row with TD pass. Ranks 1st among rookies with 92.1 rating this season. • RB ALVIN KAMARA has 7,250 career rush yards & 4,948 career rec. yards & can become 5th player ever with 5,000+ career rush yards & 5,000+ career rec. yards. • RB AUDRIC ESTIMÉ had career-high 94 rush yards & had rush TD in Week 17. • WR CHRIS OLAVE led team with 8 receptions for 119 yards & had TD catch in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row with 115+ rec. yards & 4th in row with TD catch. Has 70+ rec. yards in 3 of his past 4 vs. Atl. • TE JUWAN JOHNSON had season-high 95 rec. yards in Week 17. Has careerhigh 828 rec. yards this season. • LB DEMARIO DAVIS had 6 tackles & half sack in Week 17. Has 7+ tackles in 7 of his past 8 games on road. Has 1,514 career tackles & is 1 of 4 since 2000 (Lavonte David, London Fletcher & Bobby Wagner) with 1,500+ tackles. Had 11 tackles in Week 12 meeting. • DE CHASE YOUNG had 1.5 sacks, FF & FR-TD in Week 17. Aims for 4th in row with sack & 3rd in row with FR. Has career-high 8.5 sacks this season. Had sack in Week 12 meeting. • DE CAMERON JORDAN had 5 tackles, sack & FF in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row with sack. Had sack, 2 TFL & FF in Week 12 meeting. • CB ALONTAE TAYLOR had 9 tackles & season-high 4 PD in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row vs. Atl. with 6+ tackles. • CB KOOL-AID MCKINSTRY had 6 tackles & 2 PD in Week 17. Has PD in 5 of his past 6 games. Had PD in Week 12 meeting. • S JUSTIN REID aims for 3rd in row with PD. Had INT in Week 12 meeting.

FALCONS NOTES:

• QB KIRK COUSINS passed for 126 yards & TD in Week 17. Has TD pass in 5 of his past 6 games. Ranks 6th with 44,520 pass yards & 297 TD passes since 2012. Had 199 pass yards & 2 TD passes in Week 12 meeting. • RB BIJAN ROBINSON had career-high 195 rush yards & had rush TD & TD catch in Week 17 & is 1 of 6 players this season with 195+ rush yards in a single game. Has 5,605 scrimmage yards, most by a player under the age of 24 in NFL history. Aims for 4th in row with TD. Aims for 8th in row with 90+ scrimmage yards. Had 107 scrimmage yards in Week 12 meeting & aims for 3rd in row vs. NO with 100+ scrimmage yards. • WR DRAKE LONDON has 100+ rec. yards in 3 of his past 4 games at home. Had 97 rec. yards in last game vs. NO (11/10/24). • TE KYLE PITTS has TD catch in 2 of his past 3 games. Has 50+ rec. yards in 4 of his past 5. Ranks 4th among TEs with 3,521 rec. yards & 8th with 278 receptions since 2021. • EDGE JAMES PEARCE (rookie) has 0.5+ sack in 7 of his past 8 games. Has sack in 2 of his past 3 at home. Ranks 1st among rookies with 8.5 sacks this season. Had 1.5 sacks & TFL in Week 12 meeting. • EDGE JALON WALKER ranks 2nd among rookies with 5.5 sacks this season. Had sack in Week 12 meeting. • LB DIVINE DEABLO led team with 10 tackles in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row at home with 6+ tackles. Had 8 tackles & TFL in Week 12 meeting. • CB A.J. TERRELL had 7 tackles & 2 PD in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row with 7+ tackles at home & 6th in row with PD. • S JESSIE BATES had 7 tackles & INT-TD in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row with PD. Had 7 tackles & PD in Week 12 meeting. • S XAVIER WATTS (rookie) had 2 INTs & 3 PD in Week 17, 1 of 3 to do such in a single game this season. Ranks 3rd among rookies with 10 PD in 2025.

Game Odds

New Orleans Saints        44.5

Atlanta Falcons                 – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Saturday, January 3, 2026

WAIVER SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS
WAIVER REQUEST (NO RECALL)
TAMPA BAY
Bullock, John LB Nebraska (0)* PS: STND

CLAIMING DEADLINE: 4:00 p.m., N.Y. Time, Monday, 1/5/26
TERMINATION VIA WAIVER SYSTEM
BALTIMORE
Cleveland, Ben G Georgia (4)*
*Indicates player’s accrued seasons at end of 2024 season.

ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS
ACTIVATIONS
CAROLINA
Long, David DB Michigan – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Windmon, Jacoby LB Michigan State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
TAMPA BAY
Kancey, Calijah DE Pittsburgh – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
Pierre-Paul, Jason DE South Florida – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)

FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
MIAMI
Edwards, Donovan RB Michigan – From Washington Practice Squad
MINNESOTA
Taimani, Taki NT Oregon – From Minnesota Practice Squad
NEW ORLEANS
Bell, Ronnie WR Michigan – From New Orleans Practice Squad
Diggs, Fadil LB Syracuse – From New Orleans Practice Squad
Toure, Samori WR Nebraska – From New Orleans Practice Squad

RESERVE LIST ADDITIONS
ARIZONA
Harrison, Marvin WR Ohio State – Reserve/Injured
MIAMI
Waller, Darren TE Georgia Tech – Reserve/Injured
NEW ORLEANS
Davis, Michael DB Brigham Young – Reserve/Injured
Mitchell-Paden, Zaire TE Florida Atlantic – Reserve/Injured
Stoll, Jack TE Nebraska – Reserve/Injured
Tipton, Mason WR Yale – Reserve/Injured

PRACTICE SQUAD TRANSACTIONS
CONTRACT TERMINATED BY CLUB
MIAMI
Lewis, Clarence DB Syracuse

CONTRACTS TERMINATED BY PLAYER
MINNESOTA
Taimani, Taki NT Oregon
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
NEW ORLEANS
Bell, Ronnie WR Michigan
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
Diggs, Fadil LB Syracuse
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
Toure, Samori WR Nebraska
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
WASHINGTON
Edwards, Donovan RB Michigan
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)